Let me tell you, bacon wrapped green beans are one of those side dishes that just make any meal feel a little more special! I remember the first time I served these at a family gathering—everyone was raving about them, and I had to keep an eye on them to make sure they didn’t disappear before dinner even started! The crispy, smoky bacon paired with the tender, fresh green beans creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. They’re savory, satisfying, and oh-so-easy to whip up. Seriously, if you’re looking for a side dish that will have everyone asking for seconds, you’ve got to try this recipe for bacon wrapped green beans. It’s perfect for holidays, weeknight dinners, or even just a casual get-together. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
Ingredients for Bacon Wrapped Green Beans
Gather these simple ingredients to create the most delightful bacon wrapped green beans. Trust me, you’ll want everything fresh and ready for this tasty side dish!
- 1 pound fresh green beans
- 8 slices thin bacon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Quick tip: I always go for thin bacon because it wraps around the green beans more easily and gets perfectly crispy in the oven. Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic powder and seasoning to match your taste buds. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a sprinkle of brown sugar on top before baking for a sweet and savory twist! Yum!
How to Prepare Bacon Wrapped Green Beans
Alright, let’s dive into the fun part! Preparing bacon wrapped green beans is a breeze, and I’m here to guide you through each step. Just follow along, and soon you’ll have a delicious side dish that everyone will love!
Prepping the Green Beans
First things first, you’ll want to wash and trim your green beans. Start by rinsing them under cool water to remove any dirt or grit—freshness is key here! Once they’re clean, grab a cutting board and trim off the tough ends. I usually just snap them off with my fingers, but you can use a knife if you prefer. Fresh, crisp green beans are the star of this dish, so take your time and make sure they’re in perfect shape!
Wrapping the Green Beans
Now comes the fun part—wrapping! Take a slice of your thin bacon and wrap it around each green bean, starting at one end and spiraling down to the other. It doesn’t have to be perfect; just make sure the bacon covers the green bean well. I love using thin bacon because it wraps easily and gets all crispy and delicious in the oven. Plus, it cooks evenly, making your green beans taste even better!
Baking Instructions
Once your green beans are all wrapped up, it’s time to bake! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grab a baking sheet. Line it with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup—trust me, you’ll thank me later! Arrange the bacon-wrapped green beans in a single layer on the sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil, and sprinkle on that garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Now, pop them in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the bacon is crispy and the green beans are tender. Oh, the smell will be heavenly! Serve them warm and watch them disappear!
Tips for Success with Bacon Wrapped Green Beans
To really nail this recipe and make your bacon wrapped green beans the star of the show, I’ve got some pro tips that’ll take your dish to the next level. Trust me, these little tricks make a big difference!
- Seasoning is Key: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! You can adjust the garlic powder, salt, and pepper to suit your taste. If you love a bit of a kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes for a spicy twist!
- Sweet and Savory: For a delightful contrast, sprinkle a little brown sugar on top of the wrapped beans before baking. It caramelizes beautifully and adds a sweet touch that pairs perfectly with the smoky bacon. Yum!
- Try Different Vegetables: Feeling adventurous? You can swap out green beans for other veggies like asparagus or even zucchini! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly since some veggies cook faster than others.
- Experiment with Bacon: While I love using thin bacon, you could also try thick-cut bacon for an even heartier bite. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as thicker bacon may need a bit longer to crisp up.
- Make It Ahead: If you’re prepping for a gathering, you can wrap the green beans in advance and store them in the fridge until it’s time to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they go into the oven cold.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress your family and friends with the most delicious bacon wrapped green beans ever! Enjoy the cooking adventure!
Nutritional Information for Bacon Wrapped Green Beans
Now, let’s talk about the numbers! While I believe in enjoying food without guilt, it’s always good to know what you’re working with. Here’s the estimated nutritional information for one serving of these scrumptious bacon wrapped green beans, based on the ingredients I’ve shared:
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 10g
Keep in mind that these numbers are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But hey, it’s nice to see that you’re getting some greens in there along with that delicious bacon! Enjoy the flavors and the nutrition they bring to your table!
FAQ about Bacon Wrapped Green Beans
Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! While I’m all about those delicious green beans, you can definitely mix it up with other veggies. Asparagus is a fantastic alternative, and it wraps beautifully in bacon! You could also try zucchini or even baby carrots. Just keep in mind that different vegetables may require different cooking times, so be sure to adjust accordingly. You want everything to be perfectly tender and delicious!
How do I store leftovers?
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to heat through. They’ll be almost as good as when they were first made—just make sure to keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook!
Can I make these ahead of time?
You bet! You can prepare the bacon wrapped green beans ahead of time by wrapping them up and placing them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to cover them tightly so they don’t dry out. When it’s time to cook, you might want to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they go into the oven cold. This way, you can enjoy a fabulous side dish without all the last-minute prep!
Why You’ll Love Bacon Wrapped Green Beans
- Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in no time—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!
- Great Flavor: The combination of smoky bacon and fresh green beans creates a mouthwatering flavor that’s hard to resist!
- Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
- Versatile Side Dish: Bacon wrapped green beans pair well with nearly any main course, from grilled meats to holiday roasts.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves bacon! This dish is sure to impress family and friends at any gathering.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your own twist with different seasonings or veggies to make it your own!
Serving Suggestions for Bacon Wrapped Green Beans
Now that you’ve got your delicious bacon wrapped green beans ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve them with! This savory side dish is incredibly versatile, and it pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. Here are some of my favorite complementary dishes that will make your meal even more delightful:
- Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavor of grilled chicken pairs perfectly with the crispy bacon and fresh green beans. It’s a match made in heaven!
- Steak: Whether you’re serving up a juicy ribeye or a perfectly cooked filet mignon, bacon wrapped green beans add a delicious crunch to your plate.
- Roasted Pork Tenderloin: The savory sweetness of roasted pork tenderloin balances wonderfully with the salty bacon and vibrant green beans.
- Fish Tacos: For a lighter option, serve these green beans alongside some zesty fish tacos. The freshness of the beans contrasts beautifully with the rich flavors of the tacos.
- Holiday Ham: If you’re celebrating a special occasion, these green beans are a fantastic side to serve with a glazed holiday ham. They add that perfect touch of elegance!
- Quinoa Salad: For a vegetarian option, pair your bacon wrapped green beans with a hearty quinoa salad packed with veggies and a zesty dressing. It makes for a satisfying and nutritious meal!
With any of these pairings, your bacon wrapped green beans will shine as a standout side dish. Enjoy experimenting with different combinations, and watch your family and friends rave about your culinary skills!
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Bacon Wrapped Green Beans: 5 Reasons You’ll Crave Them
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Bacon wrapped green beans are a savory side dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans
- 8 slices bacon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash and trim the green beans.
- Wrap a slice of bacon around each green bean.
- Place the wrapped green beans on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until bacon is crispy.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Choose thin bacon for easier wrapping.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
- You can add brown sugar for a sweet touch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: bacon wrapped green beans, side dish, green beans
